Columbia University in the City of New York vs Stanford University

New York, NY — Stanford, CA

Metric
Columbia University in the City of New York
New York, NY
Stanford University
Stanford, CA
Location New York, NY Stanford, CA
Type Private Nonprofit Private Nonprofit
Total Enrollment 8,973 7,554
Acceptance Rate 4.0% 3.6%
SAT Average 1,553 1,553
In-State Tuition $71,845 $65,910
Out-of-State Tuition $71,845 $65,910
Avg Net Price $21,590 $13,807
Median Debt at Graduation $21,500 $12,000
4-Year Graduation Rate 95.5% 92.4%
Retention Rate 98.0% 98.2%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $88,535 $102,887
Median Earnings (10 yr) $102,491 $124,080
Loan Repayment Rate 185800.0% 62500.0%

Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.

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Columbia University in the City of New York
New York, NY
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Stanford University
Stanford, CA
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Columbia University in the City of New York and Stanford University compare?
Columbia University in the City of New York (New York, NY) has an acceptance rate of 4.0%, in-state tuition of $71,845, and median 10-year earnings of $102,491. Stanford University (Stanford, CA) has an acceptance rate of 3.6%, in-state tuition of $65,910, and median 10-year earnings of $124,080.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Columbia University in the City of New York or Stanford University?
Stanford University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $124,080 vs $102,491. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Columbia University in the City of New York or Stanford University?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Stanford University is the more affordable option at $13,807 per year versus $21,590.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
Columbia University in the City of New York has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 95.5% vs 92.4%.

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All data from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. PlainCollege is not affiliated with any government agency.

Related

Source: U.S. Department of Education — College Scorecard College Scorecard institution outcomes (earnings, completion, debt) · 2025